The good news is that folks at least are putting some thought into their pets names. Of the nearly half a million pets on the VPI rolls, just 13 were given the unfortunate moniker Fido. Only 17 were stuck with Spot.

Interestingly, when it came to birds and exotic pets including lizards, gerbils, rabbits and other companion animals, the top name was Charlie.

Here's a collection of a few of the dogs, cats and other critters in the Baltimore area who need homes. Be sure to check with the shelter before you go to verify that the animal you want is still there.